— — — — — — — —
The group couldn't help but wear exasperated expressions after hearing Uchiha Kitaro's words.
"If your talent is 'just average,' then what are we? Born idiots?"
They had no idea that Kitaro genuinely believed what he said.
He deeply admired scientific-minded ninjas like the Second Hokage and Orochimaru, who created various powerful jutsu. Yet, the one he respected most was Tsugikuni Yoriichi, the creator of the breathing techniques.
Although the breathing techniques seemed simple compared to other powers, they marked a groundbreaking shift—one that enhanced physical capabilities comprehensively. Since a strong body is the foundation of every powerful warrior, Kitaro considered these techniques just as important as jutsu or Haki.
Reflecting on his life so far, Kitaro realized he hadn't truly created any original jutsu or devastating moves.
His power came from cherry-picking the best techniques, merging them seamlessly, and using them together effectively.
He wasn't a creator—more of a systems integrator. And he had no shame in that.
Why waste years crafting something new when plenty of incredible tools already existed? Orochimaru, for instance, spent who knows how long perfecting his Immortality Jutsu.
Kitaro didn't have that kind of time. Instead, he integrated strong techniques into his arsenal, making them work together in ways no one else could. And so far, no one had forced him to go all out.
He didn't even know the full extent of his own strength, and honestly, he hoped he'd never have to find out. Life would be pretty dull if there were no surprises left.
"The breathing techniques were created by a man named Yoriichi. He started with the Sun Breathing style, then developed the Five Basic Breathing Forms for others to use."
"After that, all other breathing styles evolved from those five basics," Kitaro explained.
"What a genius," someone muttered, awestruck.
"Alright, let's move. While I don't mind those stalkers trailing us, I'd prefer not to be followed."
Placing a hand on Kakashi's and Shisui's shoulders, Kitaro activated the Flying Thunder God Technique. Kakashi and Shisui caught on quickly, each grabbing hold of Guy and Itachi.
With a flash of light, they vanished.
The tracking Anbu froze, their faces pale.
"Damn it!"
They quickly regrouped at the spot where Kitaro disappeared.
"It's the Flying Thunder God Technique! He used it to teleport away!"
"Do you think he noticed us?"
"Uchiha Kitaro is as sly as they come—he probably did."
"Captain, what's the plan? Where do we track them now?"
"Split up in the direction they vanished and report back to the Hokage!"
"Understood!"
Kitaro, after a few quick teleports, arrived at their destination. He had traveled across the ninja world, marking key locations for this very purpose.
"We're in... the Land of Rain?" Kakashi asked as the light drizzle hit his face.
Recognizing their surroundings, he remembered Rain Country's formidable reputation—especially the legendary Salamander Hanzō, the demigod who founded Amegakure.
During the Second Shinobi World War, Hanzō had given the Sannin their name after a brutal battle where neither side could claim outright victory. Since then, Konoha avoided missions in this area, considering it a provocation.
"Is this where Orochimaru's hiding?" Kakashi asked.
"Maybe," Kitaro replied. "My old teacher is a master of hiding. Even I can't locate him directly. But someone here should be able to."
He began walking toward Amegakure.
Atop one of Amegakure's towers, a man in a black cloak adorned with red clouds stood still. His spiky orange hair and piercing purple Rinnegan eyes made him a striking figure.
This was Pain—the Deva Path (Tendo) and the leader of the Akatsuki.
Beside him stood Konan, the Akatsuki's only female member.
"Pain, what's wrong?" she asked, noticing his sudden focus.
"There are intruders," Pain replied, frowning slightly.
"Are they enemies?"
"I don't know, but their chakra is immense. I've never felt anything like it before."
His Rinnegan allowed him to sense their power through the rain that constantly fell on the village. The incoming presence was overwhelmingly strong and unmistakably dangerous.
"Should I notify the others?" Konan asked.
"Not yet. Let's see what they want first."
— — —
By the time Kitaro and his group arrived at Amegakure's gates, Pain and Konan were already there, waiting.
Seeing Kakashi's Konoha headband, Pain narrowed his eyes.
"Ninjas from Konoha... What business do you have here?" he asked, his gaze locked on Kitaro.
.
.
.